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Holman announces Socceroos retirement

Angela Habashy

Socceroo Brett Holman has announced his retirement from international football ruling himself out of World Cup selection.

The news comes just two weeks before coach Ange Postecoglou is set to name his World Cup squad on May 14.

The 30-year-old midfielder was a key member of Australia's 2010 World Cup campaign, scoring two goals in the tournament, but will not take part in this year's Brazil showpiece which kicks-off in June.

Postecoglou did not include Holman in his first squad which played Coast Rica last November but he was a late inclusion for the side which faced Ecuador in March.

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The former Aston Villa and Feyenoord player, who's now based in Dubai with UAE Pro League club Al Nasr, has earned 63 caps since making his Socceroos debut in 2006, and played a vital role in Australia's qualifying campaign for this year's World Cup.

But Holman says he's made the decision to hang up his boots to spend more time with his young family and focus on his club career.

"It has been a great honour and privilege to play for Australia, and to represent one's country is every footballer's dream," Holman said in a statement through Inspire Sports Management.

"I am proud of my achievements and I take with me many happy memories of my time with the national team.

"Growing up in Croydon Park, I would never have imagined scoring twice in a World Cup.

"Over the past six months, circumstances have led me to re-think my international career and I have made the difficult decision to step aside from my role with the Socceroos.

"My priorities lie with my young family, and my focus from now on will be with my club Al Nasr.

"The players that I've played with and the staff of the Socceroos have been fantastic and I have made some great friendships that I'll have for a lifetime. I'd like to wish the current playing group every success, and I look forward to seeing them do the whole nation proud in Brazil and beyond."